An ambassador is the highest-ranking representative of a country in another country with which it has diplomatic relations.
How do you become an ambassador
Earn a relevant bachelor’s degree.
Earn a graduate degree.
Gain work experience.
Take the Foreign Service Officer exam.
Receive appointment.
Who Qualifies To Be An Ambassador In Ghana?
An ignorant belief is taking firm roots that anybody can be an ambassador of Ghana, except a Foreign Service Officer who has worked in the field of diplomacy and representation and has proved his or her capability after years of service.
It is true that many countries appoint distinguished citizens outside their foreign service as ambassadors. Ghana rightly did the same at independence and has since appointed some good ambassadors from outside the Foreign Service.
But it is expensive to lie abroad for one’s country and if just anybody can do that then it is not that necessary or important, and therefore most of our missions, if not all, should be closed down.
I know many will be upset by this article but it is high time we removed ignorance from its high pedestal. It is now becoming the fashion to apply for or recommend someone for the post of ambassador.
The Daily Graphic of July 6 carried a story by Kobby Asmah under the title “Appoint Dicko as Ambassador to Italy”
The article or story stated that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chapter in Italy has appealed to President J.E.A. Mills to consider appointing Alhaji Nuhu Alhassan Dicko as Ghana’s Ambassador to Italy.
According to the chapter Alhaji Dicko, who is a consultant in international policy and immigration activities, is well placed and qualified to champion the interest of Ghana and her citizens in Italy.
It is claimed that Alhaji Dicko who has been in Italy for well over 18 years, is well versed in Italian affairs.
It must be stated at once that the main work of the ambassador is not to look after the immigration and other interests of Ghanaians in Italy.